Thur.’s Devo - It Is Not Easy to Follow Christ

Read Luke 6:29-37 We have all heard the expression “turn the other cheek” as if it is a passive act, but after looking up the meaning of “smite” used here it means to pummel. In other words, to strike repeatedly, not just a slap in the face. So, once you have been pummeled on one cheek, you should be willing to turn and let it be done again to the other side. Ouch! It gets worse: it someone takes your outer garment, you are to offer him your inner garment leaving you basically naked. I’d rather be plummeled, I think. If anyone asks something from you, you are to give it, and if they take something you are not to ask for it back. Where are boundaries??? Does this mean that I have to give to every televangelist that calls? I honestly don’t think so. I think Jesus wraps it up in his next sentence: “As you would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” In other words, we are to treat others like we would want to be treated. If we are truly Christians we will not only strive to do good to those who love us but especially to those who don’t. We are to love our enemies, give without any strings attached, and show mercy because that is how God loves and shows mercy. If we don’t want to be judged, then we don’t need to judge others. If we don’t want to be condemned, then we don’t need to condemn others, and if we want to be forgiven, then we need to forgive others. The truth is, it is not easy to follow Jesus unless we allow God’s love to flow through us, then it becomes easy. If Jesus could stand to be beaten, abused, misunderstood, and lied about without sinning, he can give us the grace to overcome too. Lord, I’m sure your words from that mountain turned the carnal away but we don’t want to be among them. Help us to love our enemies and lay down our life today to follow you and overcome.